Abstract
A novel method of biomimetic surface modification was used for aramid fibres aiming to enhance the interface properties between epoxy resin and the modified aramid fibre. Inspired by the composition of adhesive proteins in mussels, a thin layer of poly(dopamine) (PDA) was self-polymerized onto the surface of the aramid fibre. The graphene oxide (GO) was then grafted on the surface of PDA-coated aramid fibres. The microstructure and chemical characteristics of the pristine and modified fibres were characterised using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), indicating successful grafting of GO on the PDA-coated aramid fibres. Single fibre tensile test and microbond test were carried out to evaluate the mechanical properties of the modified fibres. It was found that the fibre surface modification improved the interfacial shear strength by 210% and the fibre tensile strength was protected by GO-PDA coating.
Highlights
Fibre reinforced composites have been widely used in aerospace, automobile, and military industries, due to their high specific strength, modulus, lightweight and flexible design
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed that the aramid fibres were successfully coated by PDA and graphene oxide (GO)-PDA
XPS demonstrated that more polar functional groups were introduced onto aramid fibre after the treatments, which could affect the fibre surface activation
Summary
Fibre reinforced composites have been widely used in aerospace, automobile, and military industries, due to their high specific strength, modulus, lightweight and flexible design. To enhance the interfacial adhesion strength of aramid fibre-reinforced composites, efforts were mainly made to modify fibre surface using plasma treatment, γ-ray irradiation, ultrasonic treatment, chemical grafting and etching [3,4,5]. These techniques request multistep procedures and are associated to the use of high cost instrument. These surface treatments are limited with strict reaction condition and in some case the use of toxic materials. Due to the damage caused to the fibre surface, fibre strength reduction is inevitable
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
